Using data on the European population from Eurostat, the statistical office for the European Union, the recruiter predicts a huge gap between employment demand and workforce supply.

The analysis showed that, with a predicted population of 74.5m in 2050, the UK will require a workforce of about 35.4m to meet demand. However, an aging population will leave the UK with just 32.3m people in employment.

Tara Ricks, (pictured) managing director of Randstad Financial and Professional, said: "If the UK economy is to grow and overcome the difficulties of the last few years then it requires a strong workforce capable of meeting demand.

"Our projections are conservative but they still portray a worrying scenario for the country over the coming decades. With an aging population, we need to ensure we are open for business and welcoming talent from around the world to bolster our workforce. Unfortunately, with a stagnant economy and crippling work-related migration policy, the UK represents a much less attractive option for both domestic and overseas talent."

In a bid to stop talent moving abroad, average salaries for accountants has increased 7.5% since 2006, outstripping directors and chief executives who have seen their average salaries increase 1.3% over the same period.